fbpx

Gringo Gazette

What Mexico Has Taught Me

BY THE UNKNOWN GRINGO

COMPARISON IS THE THIEF OF JOY

Comparison is the thief of joy.  You know who said that?  Theodore Roosevelt, the U.S. President from 1901-1909.  And I get his point.  If I compare myself to another man……. younger, handsome, beautiful house, in better shape, Italian sports car, whiter teeth, doesn’t have hair growing out of his nose or ears like I do…… then I start looking for the mezcal.  There is always someone doing better than me.  

But over the years I have compared myself to people I know who have a passion for a place that is as strong as mine is for Ensenada.  And what it takes for them to get to that place versus what it takes for me to get to Ensenada is interesting.

I met my best-friend-from-college, Dan, when I moved to Oregon.  He met Ruth there.  They got married and live in a small town off Highway 5 between Portland and Salem.  And they are absolutely in love with Newfoundland.  This started in 1998 and they fly there two times a year out of Portland to either Minneapolis or Atlanta, then to Toronto, then to St. John’s, Newfoundland.  It takes them about 16 hours from their front door to the hotel that they like.  16 hours.

Dan says Toronto is the worst part of the trip.  The flight regs for Air Canada say that if there is lightning in the area you have to wait in your parked plane on the tarmac a full hour until after that possibility passes before you can pull up to the jet way and exit the plane.  They have sat in their plane for hours before the lightning leaves.  And they have sat and watched their connecting flight take off without them.  It’s called a ground stop. 

Now they have also fallen in love with New Zealand.  Wanna guess?  Their home to Portland to LAX to Auckland to Christchurch airport is 27 and a half hours.  And finally to their B&B destination there’s a 3 and a half hour drive in a rental car.  That’s 31 hours from bed to bed.  31.

Let’s compare.  I had my best-friend-from-childhood’s daughter come to live with me for two years from her home in Utah while she pursued a career as an actress.  Her heaven on earth?  Disneyland.   As a child her whole family would drive a full day to get to Los Angeles for the beach…..and Disneyland.  Just 35 miles from where I live.  Kelly bought an annual pass and sometimes went there twice a day…… with a friend and then maybe by herself later on.  From my house to the House of the Mouse?  An hour maximum if traffic is slow on Highway 5.  Maybe an hour.

Now.  Me.  To Ensenada.  On a motorcycle.  For years I used to drive my cargo van when I was buying solid wood rancho furniture in Rosarito and Ensenada.   A comfortable room on wheels that I could fit anything into.  And drive in the middle of the night if I wanted.  No more.  You’ll read why.  Now I leave on the motorcycle before the sun comes up to avoid as much traffic as possible in LA, Orange, and San Diego counties but NOT when it’s real dark because I don’t want to hit a peeled off big-rig tire tread or a handyman’s ladder on the 5.  The natural resting position for a motorcycle is laying on its side and not up on two wheels.  You defy gravity when you ride one.  It’s 213 miles to my hotel down there.  I will gas up before I cross the border so I can ride all the way to Ensenada and then all the way home on that full tank of gas.  My bike has a large gas tank.  Crossing the border going south is fast and then I take the toll road along the coast.  I can do this in 3 and a half hours. 

Going north is different.  No need to get more gas but I have to cross into the United States and that can take more time than crossing the border going south.  Now, I am on a motorcycle.  I do not have to wait in line at any of the crossings, Tijuana or Tecate.  No two to three hour, mind-grinding waits because motorcycles can “bounce” the line by going in between the cars, around the concrete barriers, around the vendors and beggars, and sometimes on the sidewalks.  I call it the “culture” of the border.  The people in the cars expect it.  I have never had anyone yell at me.  The vendors expect it too.  This dates back to when all motorcycles had air-cooled engines.  They had to keep moving to prevent the engine from over-heating and locking up.  Nowadays, most bikes have radiators or oil coolers to prevent that.  My 1986 bike?  Air-cooled.  But I have to tell you……bouncing the line going north has always made me feel like a king.  Yes, I am exposed to wind, heat, cold, fog, rain, oil and debris on the road, bugs hitting me….. but bouncing that line?  Sweet.  By the way, motorcyclists have a name for people driving protected in their cars.  Cagers.

How long to get home?  About the same.  I do leave Ensenada just as early as when I leave home and stopping for gas going south chews up a little less time than crossing the border going north, but at the most it should be maybe 15 extra minutes to get home.  There will be a little more traffic since I am going through Los Angeles county in full daylight but this is almost always on a Sunday morning.  Can’t complain.   

But I can compare.  I have friends in better shape and worse shape than me.  I’m 71 years old now and definitely feel the effects of my age.  I can complain but I have three close friends who have passed on.   I’m alive and they aren’t. 

Should we compare at all?  I’ve got an idea.  I’ll take you to my four favorite taco places in Ensenada — Los Originales, Tacos Don Zefe, La Avioneta, and Tacos Lily — and you take me to your four.  We’ll compare.  And if I lose ……well, I will actually be happy to lose, won’t I?   Adios, amigos.

September 9, 2024 Edition

How to download a PDF of this publication:
1. Locate the icon toolbar at the bottom part of the newspaper window. If you can’t find it you can try going full screen by clicking “Read Now” on the screen.
2. Click on the cloud icon (Download PDF) on the bottom right corner of your screen. (See example below)

Baja California Braces for Scorching Temperatures This Weekend

Baja California’s Civil Protection authorities have issued a heat advisory for the upcoming weekend, warning of significantly higher temperatures across the region. Residents are being urged to take precautions and stay safe as the heatwave rolls in.

According to the forecast, Mexicali is set to hit a scorching 47°C, while Tijuana may reach 41°C. Other areas like Tecate, Playas de Rosarito, Ensenada, San Quintín, and San Felipe are also expected to see high temperatures, ranging from 32°C to 40°C.

Officials are advising residents to limit outdoor activities, stay hydrated, and seek cool, shaded places whenever possible. For those who must be outdoors, it’s crucial to take extra precautions like wearing lightweight clothing and carrying water.

In case of an emergency, residents should call 911 or contact local authorities.

Stay safe, Baja California! This weekend’s heat is no joke, and it’s best to be prepared.

UABC Announces the 2024 Mexico International Wine Competition

The Autonomous University of Baja California (UABC), through its School of Enology and Gastronomy, has officially announced the 2024 edition of the Mexico International Wine Competition (MIWC). The event will take place on October 29 and 30, 2024, at the Department of Informatics and Libraries on the UABC Ensenada campus.

The MIWC is set to bring together top-tier wines from around the world, where they will be evaluated by a specialized jury. The competition aims to recognize excellence in winemaking according to international oenological standards, in a setting that promotes transparency, academia, and institutional integrity.

Alejandro Jiménez Hernández, the director of the School of Enology and Gastronomy, highlighted the event’s long-standing history. Initially organized by Baja California’s winemaking sector, the competition has been under UABC’s management for 17 years. The MIWC holds the distinction of being the first international wine competition in Mexico backed by an educational institution and meets the standards of the International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV). Faculty and students from various university programs actively participate in the event, reflecting its academic roots.

Jiménez Hernández emphasized the expertise of the judges, who come with extensive national and international experience in the wine industry. This guarantees that the evaluation process will be both serious and objective.

UABC has also pioneered the use of a computerized wine evaluation system, developed in-house. This system ensures the results are processed and announced quickly, demonstrating the university’s commitment to transparency.

Griselda López González, the competition’s technical coordinator, provided details about the registration process, which is open to all winemaking companies interested in participating. Entries must meet specific technical requirements, such as chemical analysis, and wines will be judged in categories like white, red, rosé, sparkling, and sweet wines. López González also mentioned that the registration deadline is September 27, 2024, with entry fees varying depending on the number of samples submitted by each winery.

Winning labels in each category can earn distinctions such as Grand Gold, Gold, Silver, Bronze, and the prestigious Mexico Medal, awarded to the highest-scoring wine in its category. The total number of medals awarded cannot exceed 30% of the total entries, ensuring a selective recognition process. López González added that labels previously awarded in past editions—those with the same name, varietal, or vintage—are excluded from competing again.

UABC encourages regional, national, and international winemaking companies to take part in the MIWC. The competition not only recognizes excellence in wine production but also fosters collaboration and exchange within the industry.

For more information on registration and the competition’s guidelines, visit the official Mexico International Wine Competition website: https://concursodelvino.ens.uabc.mx.

Join Us for Wine Without Borders 2024!🍷

Mark your calendars for October 5th, 2024, when Tijuana’s Club Campestre will host the 3rd annual Wine Without Borders festival! This year, over 40 wineries from Baja California will offer tastings from more than 100 wine labels, and 25 regional restaurants will present a delicious gastronomic experience. Expect live music, guided tastings, and cooking demonstrations to elevate the festivities. Plus, Temecula, California, will be featured as the guest wine region!

Tickets are priced at $1,500 pesos, which includes access to all the fun and flavors this exciting festival has to offer. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or a foodie, this event promises to be an unforgettable celebration of cross-border culture and cuisine.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to savor the best of Baja and beyond!

Indulge in International Chocolate Day: A Celebration of Flavor and Heritage

Every year, September 13th marks a sweet occasion that resonates with chocolate lovers worldwide—International Chocolate Day! This delightful day pays homage to one of the world’s most beloved treats, celebrating not just its irresistible flavor but also its rich history and cultural significance. Whether you’re a fan of dark, milk, or white chocolate, this day is all about indulging in the magic of cocoa and appreciating the countless ways it brings joy to our lives. 

Chocolate has a fascinating history that dates back over 4,000 years to the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica, including the Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs. In these cultures, cocoa beans were revered as a gift from the gods, used both as currency and in ceremonial drinks. The word “chocolate” itself is believed to have originated from the Aztec word “xocolatl,” which referred to a bitter, spiced drink made from roasted and ground cacao beans. 

When Spanish explorers arrived in the New World, they were introduced to this exotic beverage and brought it back to Europe, where it quickly became a sensation. Over the centuries, chocolate evolved from a luxury reserved for the elite to a treat enjoyed by people of all walks of life, thanks to innovations in production and the addition of sugar and milk to sweeten its bitter flavor. 

Mexico has played a pivotal role in the history and production of chocolate. Today, the country produces around 28,000 tons of cocoa annually, making it a significant player in the global chocolate industry. The states of Tabasco, Chiapas, and Oaxaca are among the top producers, where traditional farming practices are still used to cultivate high-quality cacao beans. These regions are known for their unique flavors, which reflect the rich biodiversity of the Mexican landscape. 

Mexican chocolate is often characterized by its deep, robust flavor, which comes from a blend of cacao, cinnamon, and other spices. This distinctive taste has influenced chocolate recipes around the world and remains a beloved staple in Mexican cuisine, where it’s used in everything from mole sauces to sweet hot chocolate drinks. 

While chocolate is undoubtedly delicious, it also comes with a surprising array of health benefits, especially when it comes to dark chocolate. Dark chocolate is rich in flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that helps protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants can also improve heart health by lowering blood pressure, reducing cholesterol levels, and improving blood flow to the heart. 

Moreover, chocolate contains compounds that can boost your mood by increasing the production of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones in your brain. So, enjoying a piece of dark chocolate not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also contributes to your overall well-being. 

Celebrating International Chocolate Day: Share Your Sweet Moments 

International Chocolate Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in your favorite chocolate treats. Whether you prefer a classic dark chocolate bar, a creamy milk chocolate truffle, or a decadent slice of chocolate cake, today is all about celebrating the joy that chocolate brings. 

We’d love to see how you’re marking this delicious day! Share a photo of your favorite chocolate indulgence and tag us on our post in our social media. Let’s create a virtual celebration filled with everyone’s go-to chocolate delights. 

Fun Chocolate Facts to Sweeten Your Day 

Chocolate as Currency: In ancient Aztec society, cacao beans were so valuable that they were used as currency. For example, you could trade 10 beans for a rabbit or 100 beans for a turkey. 

A Chocolate Lover’s Holiday: September 13th was chosen as International Chocolate Day because it’s the birthday of Milton S. Hershey, the founder of the Hershey Chocolate Company. His contributions to the chocolate industry have made him a household name. 

Chocolate’s Role in World Wars: During World War II, chocolate bars were included in soldiers’ rations as a quick source of energy. It was also used as a morale booster, reminding soldiers of home. 

As we celebrate the sweet side of chocolate, it’s also important to consider its impact on the environment and communities involved in its production. Supporting fair trade chocolate ensures that the farmers who grow the cacao beans are paid fairly and work under safe conditions. Additionally, choosing chocolate from sustainable sources helps protect the environment and supports biodiversity. 

So, as you enjoy your favorite chocolate treat today, take a moment to think about the journey it took from cacao bean to delicious delight—and the people who made it possible. 

Happy International Chocolate Day from all of us at Gringo Gazette North! 🍫 

Que Pasa in Baja?

Ensenada-San Diego Ferry Schedule Announced. Azteca Ferries has finally unveiled the travel schedules for the much-anticipated Ensenada to San Diego ferry service, although ticket prices remain under wraps. The ferry journey, lasting between two and a half to three hours, is not yet assigned specific days of operation, keeping potential travelers on their toes. Morning ferries will depart from Ensenada at 7:00 AM, reaching San Diego by 9:30 AM, with an afternoon service returning by 5:30 PM. Conversely, San Diego departures are set for 11:30 AM and 7:00 PM, with corresponding arrivals in Ensenada. The company advises travelers to plan ahead to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. Despite the delay in releasing ticket costs, excitement is high as this new link promises to boost cross-border connectivity.

Rosarito Real Estate Market Poised for a Comeback. Rosarito’s real estate market, which has seen a 30% dip in sales recently, could be in for a boost this September, thanks to expected interest rate cuts in the U.S. Gustavo Torres Ramírez, President of the Rosarito Business Coordinating Council, is optimistic about a potential 15% rise in property investments. The majority of Rosarito’s real estate buyers are from Southern California, and lower U.S. mortgage rates could make it easier for them to refinance and invest in a second home south of the border. Torres Ramírez believes that the high cost of housing in California makes Rosarito an attractive option. However, concerns over potential judicial reforms in Mexico are causing some investor uncertainty. Still, if the market conditions align, Rosarito could see a renewed surge in real estate development, something that hasn’t happened since the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rosarito in Need of More Police Officers. Playas de Rosarito is in urgent need of over 300 additional police officers to adequately cover the city’s security demands, according to Francisco Javier Arellano Ortíz, head of the local police department. While the current administration has added 50 new officers, this is far from enough to address the city’s growing needs. Complicating matters, some officers are currently out of service due to questionable disability claims, further straining the force. Arellano Ortíz emphasized the importance of continued investment in security and maintaining strong coordination with federal and state authorities to combat crime and violence. He noted that, despite challenges, violence in the area has decreased over the past five years, with a significant reduction in homicides and bank robberies. However, to sustain and improve these gains, the next government must prioritize police funding and avoid fiscal austerity measures that could jeopardize public safety.

Governor Launches “Soy México” Campaign to Simplify Birth Registration. On August 15, Governor Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda kicked off the “Soy México” 2024 campaign, aiming to make it easier for Mexican-American children and adults born in the U.S. to register their birth certificates in Baja California. This initiative, led by the General Secretariat of Government, started in Tijuana and will extend to other cities like Mexicali, Tecate, Playas de Rosarito, and Ensenada. The goal is to remove bureaucratic hurdles and cut costs for those seeking to obtain Mexican nationality, offering savings of up to 4,500 pesos per person by waiving fees for apostilles and translations. The campaign reflects the state’s commitment to supporting vulnerable families and aligns with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador’s vision of ensuring a dignified life for all Mexicans. Over the coming months, the government will work with local municipalities to ensure that school-aged children and others in need can benefit from this program.

Tourism Committee Gears Up for 2025 Tianguis in Baja California. The 49th edition of the Tianguis Turístico, set for 2025, is shaping up to be a major event in Baja California. With the Rosarito Baja Center as its main venue, this binational tourism expo will be the first of its kind held in northern Mexico. During the official ceremony, Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda and Mexico’s Tourism Secretary, Miguel Torruco Marqués, highlighted the event’s significance. Expected to generate an economic impact of 1.3 billion pesos, the Tianguis aims to draw 10,000 visitors, including tour operators from the U.S., Canada, Asia, South America, and Europe. The event is planned for April 28 to May 1, 2025, and preparations are in full swing, with more than 7,100 hotel rooms across Tijuana, Ensenada, Rosarito, and Tecate already designated for attendees. This event is set to make history in Mexican tourism and further boost Baja California’s global appeal.

Sassi del Valle Project Expected to Start in December. The long-awaited Sassi del Valle project, first introduced in August 2023, is now anticipated to begin construction in December, according to Mexico’s Tourism Secretary, Miguel Torruco Marqués. During a recent press conference with Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda, Torruco shared his inspiration for the project, which draws from the success of Val’Quirico, a Tuscany-inspired development in Tlaxcala. Sassi del Valle, however, will feature architecture reminiscent of Matera, Italy, and blend elements of Baja California’s historical missions.

While the project aims to bring a European flair to the region, with a private investment of 1.5 billion pesos, its start has been delayed due to pending municipal permits. Despite these setbacks, the project’s foundation stone has already been laid, and locals are hopeful that construction will finally kick off by the end of the year.

Baja California’s Culinary Stars Shine in National Competition. Ten of Baja California’s top restaurants have made it to the finals of the prestigious “Mérito Restaurantero 2024,” a national competition recognizing excellence in the culinary industry. The state president of Canirac BC, Juan José Plascencia Huerta, praised the finalists for their modern entrepreneurial spirit, leadership, and dedication to service. The competition, which has been honoring the best in the restaurant industry for 33 years, is a significant accolade, showcasing creativity, culinary excellence, and innovation.

Among the finalists are notable names like Jorge A. Lutteroth del Riego from Carl’s Jr. in Tijuana, Aldo Ayala Contreras of Salvia Blanca in Ensenada, and Maribel Aldaco from Fauna in Ensenada. These nominations highlight the vibrant and diverse culinary scene in Baja California, with Tijuana leading as one of the top three Canirac delegations in the country. The recognition not only honors individual excellence but also reinforces Baja California’s growing influence in Mexico’s gastronomic landscape.

Gulfstream Expands Operations in Mexicali with $370 Million Investment. Governor Marina del Pilar Ávila Olmeda has announced a significant boost to Baja California’s economy with Gulfstream’s new investment in Mexicali. The aerospace giant is set to pour $370 million into expanding its operations, adding more than 540,000 square feet to its existing facilities. This expansion is expected to create 1,500 high-quality jobs, further establishing Mexicali as a key player in the aerospace industry.

Gulfstream, already a major employer in the region with over 5,000 employees, continues to be an economic pillar in Mexicali. The new investment not only strengthens Baja California’s leadership in the aerospace sector but also aligns with the state’s broader goals of economic development and job creation. Governor Marina del Pilar emphasized the importance of this expansion for the region’s growth, solidifying Gulfstream’s role as a major contributor to Mexicali’s economic landscape.

Ensenada Inaugurates Long-Awaited Sports Hall of Fame. After 30 years of anticipation, Ensenada finally has its own Sports Hall of Fame, thanks to a 3.3 million pesos investment by Energía Costa Azul. The new facility, named after the late professor Alfredo Marín Méndez, was officially opened with a ceremony attended by prominent athletes, their families, and local officials.

This project, part of the Social Investment Program by ECA, aims to honor the city’s athletes, sports journalists, and promoters who have made a lasting impact on Ensenada’s sports history. The Hall of Fame is located within the Centro Social, Cívico y Cultural Riviera, and features exhibits of uniforms, photos, and memorabilia from various sports disciplines.

The public can visit the Hall of Fame starting next week, with visiting hours from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Tuesday through Sunday. This new space is a tribute to the power of sports in transforming lives and building communities.

New Ramps Coming to Playa Hermosa for Better Accessibility. Playa Hermosa in Ensenada is getting two new wooden ramps to ensure universal accessibility, according to Jaime Figueroa Tentori, the director of Infrastructure for Ensenada’s XXIV Ayuntamiento. These ramps are part of ongoing works initially overseen by the federal government through Sedatu.

The original plan included stone and concrete structures, but following consultations with environmental experts, it was decided that wooden ramps would be less invasive and cause less erosion to the beach. The first ramp, already completed, spans about 90 meters from the first viewpoint down to the beach, providing a comfortable slope for all visitors, including those using wheelchairs.

A second ramp is planned for the northern end of Playa Hermosa, within the federal Asipona zone. In total, 12 million pesos have been invested in these improvements, making the beach more accessible for everyone.

Concrete Upgrades Coming to Valle de Guadalupe Roads. The main roads connecting Valle de Guadalupe are set to receive a significant upgrade with new concrete paving, thanks to funding from Fideicomiso Empresarial II and the Baja California government’s infrastructure department, Sidurt. The project kicked off with a modest ceremony and will involve an investment of 10 million pesos. The first phase, funded jointly by Fidem II and the state government, will focus on improving the roads crucial to both tourism and local residents.

The upgraded roads are expected to enhance the visitor experience, especially with the upcoming Tianguis Turístico 2025, where Baja California will be the host. Local businesses, particularly in the tourism sector, are eager for the improvements, which will also help showcase the region’s charm to international visitors. The project includes applying a 15-centimeter layer of MR-42 concrete, ensuring the durability of these vital routes for years to come.

Always, Patsy Cline: A Musical Play Review

BY MARTINA DOBESH

Amazing talent hides out in Baja’s coastal hills. Seldom are we treated to having so many gathered together in one room. But the La Misión Performing Arts held at the Quinta Los Defines gave the community a real treat. It was almost like being present at the Grand Ole Oprea. The setting brought everyone up close and very personal for this musical play, Always, Patsy Cline. It brought the local talent together for a humongous production featuring two powerhouse women to carry the load, Ginevra Altomara as Patsy and Lisa Rath as her friend Louise. The show’s title was inspired by Cline’s letters to Louise, which were consistently signed “Love ALWAYS… Patsy Cline.” It is said that “It has that magic ingredient that just draws you in — the friendship of the women, the incredible music of Patsy Cline, and in our space the intimacy of storytelling,” 

The original production opened in 1988 and went on to be an international hit. The musical is based on a true story about Patsy Cline’s friendship with Louise Seger. You might remember some of Patsy’s  most famous songs, I Fall to Pieces, Crazy, and Sweet Dreams. She recorded nearly 100 songs and Ginevra, as Patsy Cline, sang 27 of them in this two-hour performance! Ginevra hit the songs out of the ball park, all the while looking beautiful. The power of her voice astounded the audience. And we wanted to know how was it possible for her to remember all those lyrics?! Each with a wardrobe and scene change. One answer might be the years of commitment to developing her art. 

Photos by Kathey Fatica

Enter stage left is Lisa Rath, as Patsy’s friend Louise Seger who became a fan and had the starstruck good luck to have her idol actually stay overnight in her home. Lisa played her part with big bold brightness. Her blond wig, her bawdy movements had us all captive and laughing. And again, we were flabbergasted that she carried off seven separate dialogues of 330 to 500 words and each lasting about five minutes! This is beyond believable. All this with her own scene and costume changes to remember. Both women were truly remarkable and enthralled the audience with their prowess.

Now it takes many passionate people to produce a musical play. Director Danny Ingersoll exclaimed, “Theatre is magic!” And he has been committed to creating this magic for the community, and proud that he has “learned theatre by doing theatre.” This was a huge production he took on and brought the magic of real life to the stage. One of the brilliant additions were the separate band members playing parts as actors. Usually we never see the band, only hear them as background. Each member has a long list of credits to their names and all very seasoned performers. The “Bodacious Bobcats” all had Bob names for the fun of it. Jim Bob played by Miguel Korsa on Guitar, Billy Bob by Bruce Erickson on lead guitar, Ray Bob, by David Finch on the fiddle, Jay Bob, by Glen Brown, Jr. on Bass Guitar, Bob Bob, by Randy Seol on drums. Joe Bob, was played by Derek Wille a MYNDSTREAM recording artist who made the baby grand piano come alive. All this amazing talent provided the feel of the Gand Ole Opry. Assistant Director Jan Folsom pulled all this together managing the stage. Set design by Michael Fatica were cute little intimate sets for certain scenes. Paul Ross was the set master builder of a flashy juke box and nice detail sets to support all the action. And part of this fun was they called for participation from us to sing along. We would be remiss to not acknowledge the beautiful location provided by David Cattanio of the lovely Quinta Los Defines.

So, could it get any better? You bet! I had been invited to the last dress rehearsal before opening night. Part of that invitation was to follow the cast to Splash where David Finch, “Ray Bob” would take his fiddle to join the master guitarist, Miguel de Hoyos for a jam session. We really got to see David’s fiddle in action to resounding cheers from the diners. David has played beside many diverse artists Alan Cuming, Tony Bennett, and Dee Snider to name a few. He has acted on Broadway and the West End in London, as well as the BBC Symphony Orchestra in London and so much more. 

Of course, we know Miguel! We have come to think of him as our own. He has traveled the world and played for presidents and dignitaries. He has performed more than 80 concerts in Germany. As well as all over Europe and Mexico. He is also known as part of our community and teaches guitar and Spanish to the locals. How could we be so lucky to have Miguel living nearby and playing Wednesday nights for an early evening performance? Well, just lucky I guess. One visitor said that in San Diego his performance would be a $200 gig!

You will want to check in for all the upcoming productions like the Halloween Murder Mystery and other events for the holidays. Check in with David Cattanio at Quintalosdelfines@gmail.com

Editor’s Note: Martina is a freelance writer, columnist for Baja Bound and author of Dust in My Sandals, Tales from a Baja Traveler. Give the gift that keeps on giving to friends and family.

No Paella Left Behind in the 2024 Paella Contest

BY LUISA ROSAS

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you mix a competitive spirit with delicious food and fine wine, look no further than the Dr. Ramón García Ocejo Paella Contest. Held on August 18, 2024, at Viña de Liceaga as part of the XXXIV Fiestas de la Vendimia, this event is where paella meets pageantry—Ensenada style. With over 2,500 attendees, it was the talk of the town, or should we say, the taste of the town?

Picture this: a balmy summer afternoon, surrounded by the rolling vineyards of Baja California, shaded by ancient oak trees. Now add 160 different wines from 84 wineries, live music, and 90 teams determined to create the perfect paella. If that doesn’t scream “perfect day,” we don’t know what does.

The Fiestas de la Vendimia aren’t just about drinking wine and eating paella (though, honestly, that’s reason enough to go). It’s also about celebrating Ensenada’s rich culture and deep-rooted traditions. The Paella Contest, organized by Provino Baja California, brings together locals and tourists alike to enjoy the fruits of the region’s labor—literally.

The Competition Heats Up

You might think that making paella is just about tossing some rice and seafood in a pan, but you’d be wrong. Very wrong. These 90 teams took their craft seriously, preparing their paellas with the same intensity as a chef on a cooking show—minus the dramatic background music. The rules were simple: cook the paella in the same-sized pans, with the same amount of rice, and over an open flame. The catch? Impress a panel of judges from the Asociación Gastronómica y de Paelleros de Baja California, A.C. (AGAPE) with the best color, appearance, flavor, and texture. No pressure, right?

The judges used a color-coded system to keep everything anonymous and fair. The paellas were graded not only on taste but also on presentation. After all, you eat with your eyes first, and nothing says “delicious” like a perfectly golden paella, glistening in the sun.

And the Winners Are…

Let’s get to the good stuff: the winners. In the “Quality” category, first place went to San Sebastián, followed by Martes de Ricos and Pacífica at Ensenada Bay in second and third, respectively. For “Presentation,” Los Jacaleros took the top spot, with Vivencias and Tía Margarita rounding out the top three.

What did the winners take home besides bragging rights? Trophies, wine, and, of course, paella pans—because you can never have too many. They also got some stylish aprons, t-shirts, and hats, so everyone knows who the real paella masters are. Thanks to sponsors like Banco Afirme and Distribuidora La Canasta, the lucky teams also received promotional goodies and vouchers totaling 14,000 pesos. That’s a lot of paella ingredients.

Music, Fun, and Family

But the Paella Contest wasn’t just about food and competition. It was a full-blown fiesta, complete with live music on two stages. DJ Robbie Solis kept the energy high with his electronic beats, while Ovejas Negras took us back with some classic rock in both English and Spanish. And let’s not forget La Gran Familia, who had everyone dancing for five hours straight—burning off all that paella, no doubt.

For the younger crowd (and those young at heart), the event featured workshops in arts and mural painting by the Prisma Academy, along with a pétanque game hosted by the Mexican Pétanque Federation. It’s not every day you get to throw metal balls around while your parents sip wine and munch on gourmet rice dishes.

The Grand Finale

Just when you thought the day couldn’t get any better, there was a raffle. Courtesy of the Baja California Sur Tourism Promotion Trust, one lucky attendee won a package for two, including round-trip tickets from Tijuana to Loreto, four nights at La Misión Hotel, dinner at Raíz Restaurant, and a tour of Bahía Loreto National Park. Now that’s what we call a grand finale!

As the 34th edition of the Paella Contest wrapped up, it was clear that the event had once again brought together the best of Ensenada’s food, wine, and culture. The only downside? Waiting another year to do it all over again.

In the meantime, don’t worry—there’s no bad news here, only good times and great food. Cheers to that!

August 26, 2024 Edition

How to download a PDF of this publication:
1. Locate the icon toolbar at the bottom part of the newspaper window. If you can’t find it you can try going full screen by clicking “Read Now” on the screen.
2. Click on the cloud icon (Download PDF) on the bottom right corner of your screen. (See example below)

Send this to a friend